Take a moment in the heat and lazy (crazy, hazy) days of summer to imagine what your life will be like in November and December. For me, it feels like November and December are a whirlwind of to-do lists, events, and lots of shopping. It’s always fun, but it’s also a bit exhausting. I’m not one of those super organized people who manage to get their Christmas shopping done before August, but I did make one small change: I no longer send out Christmas cards.
I love the idea of Christmas cards. I appreciate how they keep people connected, not just through Facebook or Instagram, but with something tangible. They’re old fashioned and harken back to a simpler time, which I love. Overall, I find them to absolutely be a worthwhile use of my time. Unfortunately, time is somewhat of a commodity during the holiday season. So I got a little creative.
Our family has sent out Christmas cards, Thanksgiving cards, and New Year’s cards. Everything worked okay, but about five years ago we hit upon our winner: Fourth of July cards. I know, it sounds a bit nuts, but it totally works for our family, for many reasons.
June. I’m a teacher and, for me, June is the most relaxing month of the year. Our schedules are open, and our commitments are few. It’s just a slower pace. Not only does that make scheduling photos easier, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to spend some time stuffing and addressing more than 100 cards to our family and friends. - Summer clothes. Finding the right outfit for everyone in your family to wear in a picture can be stressful. However, summer involves fewer clothing choices. My boys (hubby included) wear shorts and polos, I wear a dress, and everyone dons sandals. Simple and easy to coordinate. It works.
- Weather. The weather is utterly predictable in June. It will be hot. It won’t be unbearably so, but it will be hot. However, our summer clothes keep us pretty cool, and it makes it easier to take pictures in the evening or morning. I have no desire to look adorable in jeans, boots, and a sweater in December, only for it to be 80 degrees outside. Hard pass.
- Tan. Y’all, I love a good tan. A little summer glow and my freckles coming out and I just feel more confident. And my kids are extra beautiful in the summer time with their light eyes and golden skin. It’s a win all around.
- Fridge time. Yup, you read that right. You know how people display their Christmas cards during the holidays? When we send ours out in July, we often get put on a fridge, and we last there all the way through December. Winning.
I know it’s not for everyone. Some people love to send out Christmas cards as part of their traditions and because it works for their family. But if you’re struggling to find some balance, I suggest thinking outside the box for your annual family cards.
Pick any time of year that works for you. I have a friend who sends out Valentine’s Day cards and another who chooses Easter. Really, the sky’s the limit. The important thing is that you pick a time that works for your family and reach out to stay connected.
